New Developments in Southwest Florida: Daycare Expansion and Real Estate Projects

Expansion of The Learning Experience

Major Growth in Fort Myers, Estero, and Naples

The Learning Experience, a prominent day care chain based in Deerfield Beach, is making significant strides in Southwest Florida. With plans to open three new locations over the next three years, the company aims to enhance early childhood education across the region. The new centers will be located in:

• Fort Myers: 6080 Jonathans Bay Dr. – Expected to open later this year
• Estero: 19950 S. Tamiami Trail – Anticipated opening in the third quarter of next year
• Naples: 4735 Santa Barbara Blvd. – Set to open in the third quarter of 2027

These new facilities will encompass a total of 30,000 square feet, featuring approximately 10,000 square feet of indoor space each, accompanied by a 5,000-square-foot playground. The centers will create around 30 jobs each, further contributing to local employment.

Last year, the company revealed that the average cost to build a new daycare center is between $3.2 million and $3.5 million.

YMCA in St. Petersburg Gets a Facelift

Land Sale Reaps Benefits

In a strategic move, the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg has sold part of its land at the Jim & Heather Gills YMCA (3200 1st Ave. S.) to developers for $12 million. This transaction involves 4.5 acres of the property, with plans to transform it into a mixed-use residential and retail development.

Planned Developments:

• Retail Space: The retail center, known as Whitney Village, will feature 32,000 square feet of space.
• Residential Units: The project will include 325 apartments, designed for local employees, including YMCA staff.
• Parking Facilities: A new six-story, 600-space parking garage will also be constructed.

The project aims to modernize the YMCA, with enhancements including:

• Relocated athletic fields with artificial turf
• Expanded parking with access to the new garage
• Updated locker rooms

Development Timeline

The YMCA’s modernization project is slated to kick off this spring, with the residential and retail components developed by Blake Investment Partners and Greystar.

New Housing Developments in Tampa and Surrounding Areas

Land Sale Near Busch Gardens

In another real estate development, Boos Development has purchased 9 acres of land near Busch Gardens for $1.4 million. The plan includes creating 38 home sites in a residential area just minutes from local attractions.

Rental Homes in Wimauma

A partnership between PCCP and Balcara Group has secured 36 acres in Wimauma, Hillsborough County, to develop 196 townhouse units for rent. Homebuilding will be undertaken by Lennar, with the first units expected for delivery later this year.

Breakdown of Housing Units:

• 52 two-bedroom units (1,372 sq. ft.)
• 72 three-bedroom units (1,534 sq. ft.)
• 36 three-bedroom units (1,654 sq. ft.)
• 36 four-bedroom units (1,663 sq. ft.)

Environmental Developments in Sarasota and Manatee

Sarasota County’s Land Purchases

Sarasota County has recently acquired two ecologically significant properties in Venice, contributing to its Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program. These properties include:

• 4.14 acres on Lemon Bay Drive – Acquired for $350,000
• 5 acres on East Venice Avenue – Acquired for $950,000

Ecological Significance

Both areas support diverse wildlife, including:

• Bird species like roseate spoonbills and little blue herons
• Habitat for gopher tortoises

The county voters’ approval in 1999 for a dedicated tax to fund such environmental initiatives underscores the community’s commitment to preserving its natural resources.

Renovation Plans for Payne Park Auditorium

The Sarasota Players have signed a 30-year lease for the Payne Park Auditorium and plan a $2.5 million renovation. The updates will include:

• Retaining the original 1960s aesthetic
• Adding a new lobby
• Expanding restroom facilities

Scheduled to commence this fall, the renovations aim to reopen in time for the 2026 theater season.

Conclusion

The recent developments in Southwest Florida highlight a vibrant mix of educational, residential, and environmental projects. From expanding daycare centers to modernizing community facilities and preserving natural land, these initiatives aim to enhance the quality of life in this thriving region.

Stay informed on these exciting developments and more. For further updates, check out related news on local real estate and community initiatives.